Definition

This procedure uses a hysteroscope to view the inside of a woman’s uterus (womb). A hysteroscope is a long, thin telescope with a camera on the end. Other small, surgical tools may also be inserted into the uterus through the hysteroscope.

The result of the hysteroscopy depends on the reason for the procedure. In some cases, the doctor may be able to treat a condition right away. In other cases, you may need further surgery or other treatment.

Possible Complications

Complications are rare. But, no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have hysteroscopy, your doctor will review a list of possible complications. These may include:

Swelling or bleeding

Infection

Organ injury

Reaction to anesthesia

Before your procedure, talk to your doctor about ways to manage factors that may increase your risk of complications such as:

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

You will be asked about your medical history, medications, and allergies. A physical exam will be done. Blood tests may also be done.

Leading up to the procedure:

Talk to your doctor about your medications. You may be asked to stop taking some medicines up to one week before the procedure.

Arrange to have someone drive you home. Also, arrange for help at home.

If instructed, eat a light meal the night before the surgery. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight.

Anesthesia

Depending on the reason for the hysteroscopy, your doctor may use:

General anesthesia
—blocks pain and keeps you asleep through the surgery; used for therapeutic procedure

Regional anesthesia—numbs one area of the body; used for diagnostic or therapeutic procedure

Local anesthesia—just the area that is being operated on is numbed; given as an injection and may also be given with a sedative; used for diagnostic procedure

Description of the Procedure

A device called a speculum will be inserted into the vagina. It will hold your vagina open and allow instruments to enter easily. The doctor will clean the vagina and may dilate the cervix. The hysteroscope will then be put into the uterus through the vagina and dilated cervix. The uterus will be filled with carbon dioxide gas or a liquid. This will cause the uterus to inflate, allowing the doctor to get a closer, clear look at the uterine walls.

If you are having the procedure done for diagnostic reasons, the doctor will examine the uterus for abnormal tissue. A
biopsy
may be taken. Or, the uterine walls may be swabbed to get cell samples.

If you are having the procedure done for therapeutic reasons, the doctor may insert small surgical tools through the hysteroscope. The tools will be used to remove diseased tissue and make repairs. In some cases, the doctor will use another viewing tube called a laparoscope. It will be passed into the abdomen. This allows the doctor to monitor the outside of the uterus and detect any possible perforation of the uterus by the hysteroscope.

How Long Will It Take?

About 15-45 minutes (or longer for a therapeutic procedure)

How Much Will It Hurt?

You will have mild cramping and soreness. Ask your doctor about pain medication.

Post-procedure Care

During your stay, the hospital staff will take steps to reduce your chance of infection such as:

Washing their hands

Wearing gloves or masks

Keeping your incisions covered

There are also steps you can take to reduce your chances of infection such as:

Washing your hands often and reminding visitors and healthcare providers to do the same

Reminding your healthcare providers to wear gloves or masks

Not allowing others to touch your incisions

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

Signs of infection, including fever and chills

Abnormal bleeding (more than a menstrual period)

Foul-smelling vaginal discharge

Abdominal pain

Nausea, vomiting

Cough, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, or chest pain

Trouble urinating

Any other concerns

In case of an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.

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